Matthew 10:1-4 The Twelve Apostles

Jesus put together one of the greatest, if not the greatest, team on earth. Their greatness can be measured in many ways. For one, they influenced the whole known world of their day with the Gospel. Also, their preaching, teaching, and writings have shaped the thoughts of many, many people around the world to this day and inspired the writing of many books. Last, but not least, their ministry in the supernatural with healing and exorcisms left the crowds in awe. Undoubtedly, this is a great team that has influenced the whole world since its inception to this day and will continue to touch lives throughout history until the end of days.

Interestingly enough, the members of the team are not extraordinary people, but ordinary citizens of their day. Among them we find fishermen, tax collectors, and carpenters. Yet, they were all able to make a contribution for the expansion of the kingdom of God. None of them were in positions of power and influence, but were able to influence the masses with the Gospel message. In their beginnings, they were pretty insecure; afraid of what the authorities would do to them. Afterwards, they were willing to die for the proclamation of the Gospel.

What makes ordinary people into extraordinary team players for the kingdom? Jesus called them, gave them authority, and the apostles obeyed. It is essential that I have certainty that God has called me - not just to be a pastor, but to be a Christian. My calling as a Christian must be clear. Secondly, it is very important that I seize the authority given and use it appropriately. Authority is permission and power to do something. Just like the apostles, permission alone does not cut it; they needed power. I must live a Spirit-filled life to be empowered to do the work of the kingdom. Finally, I must obey. The call and the authority are worthless unless I am willing to act in obedience.

When I question my salvation and my call, I undermine the work of God in my own life and the life of those around me. When I doubt the God-given authority Jesus gives me to minister to others, I jeopardize my ability to be an instrument in God's hands to touch others. When I simply disobey God's call upon my life to be a witness to others, I miss the opportunity to see God do extraordinary things with my ordinary life.

Lord, grant me assurance in my call to serve you. Fill me with your Spirit so that I may seize the authority you have dispensed. And move my will to obey you day by day so that I may see you at work through me.